Eight Cork schools among those awarded for LGBTQ+ inclusion
A total of 37 secondary schools received an LGBTQ+ Quality Mark. Picture: Ben Birchall
Eight secondary schools in Cork are among those to be awarded the LGBTQ+ quality mark, in recognition of their efforts in creating a “safe and supportive” school environment for their LGBTQ+ students.
A total of 37 secondary schools from across the country, who each finished an 18-month journey to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in their classrooms, received the quality mark at an event today.
The schools were given advice and support, allowing them to implement a holistic approach towards inclusion, to improve the wellbeing and safety of their LGBTQ+ pupils.
The quality mark also includes adapting the school curriculum to implement diversity and respect and ensuring the staff are equipped to support LGBTQ+ students, among others.
These are the first cohort of schools to have completed the 18-month inclusion course, earning them their LGBTQ+ Quality Mark, run by Belong To, Ireland’s national LGBTQ+ youth organisation.
In Cork, Bandon Grammar School, Coláiste Pobail Naomh Mhuire, Cork Educate Together Secondary School, Kinsale Community School, North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School, Maria Immaculata Community College, St Aloysius School, and the Patrician Academy all took home the accolade.
The schools were recognised at a celebratory event hosted by presenter James Kavanagh at The Foundry, Google's headquarters in Dublin.
With 76% of LGBTQ+ students reportedly feeling unsafe at school, the quality mark is important in creating an environment where all students feel safe and supported.
Speaking at the event, Minister of State Jack Chambers said the presence of a supportive school environment can have a “hugely beneficial impact on the wellbeing and attainment of LGBTQ+ students”.
“The Government is committed to ensuring the safety, equality, and inclusion of all students, including our LGBTQ+ students, by creating safe, supportive, and inclusive school environments for all," he said.
Kenneth Hickey, Q Mark Coordinator from Maria Immaculata Community College, Dunmanway described the Q Mark programme as an "incredibly positive experience" for the school.
"It allowed us as a school to build on our core values and reaffirm our commitment to an environment where every student feels valued and accepted,"
"Our school Bród Club has provided a space where LGBTQ+ students, their allies and friends can meet each week in a safe and visible space at the centre of our school," he added.
Moninne Griffith, CEO of Belong To — LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland, acknowledged that school can be a difficult place for LGBTQ+ students, “but that does not have to be the case”.
“There are outstanding schools committed to creating safe and supportive spaces for LGBTQ+ students. The positive impact of inclusion and visibility allows students to live healthy lives and thrive at school,” she said.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
